RODEO’S FRIEND: The new movie “It Could...

RODEO’S FRIEND: The new movie “It Could Happen to You” is about winning the lottery. So the California Lottery people are promoting it with a new media blitz. Included is a mention of Christene Lentz, 26, of Capistrano Beach, who picked up $19.58 million for a winning lotto ticket almost seven years ago. . . . Say the lottery people: Lentz first bought a BMW convertible, “then headed for Rodeo Drive.” Since then she’s bought four homes, a yacht, a doll shop, and has made major contributions to the Children’s Miracle Network.

SAFE WHEELS ONLY: Can you really get upset with a movie like “Lassie”? Yes, says the Cypress-based Yamaha Motor Corp. The company is unhappy with a Paramount Pictures’ “Lassie” promotion showing a youngster who pops a wheelie while riding a Yamaha ATV off-road vehicle . . . “It is not a safe use of the vehicle,” says Yamaha spokesman Roy Watson. “Running that promotion is a disservice to children watching. We do not recommend wheelies.” No response yet from Paramount.

IRVINE 92714: Fans of TV’s “Beverly Hills 90210” star Brian Austin Green can join him for his 21st birthday party tonight at the Metropolis club in Irvine. Except the 18-and-over nightclub will be changing its name Wednesdays to “Il’s House.” That’s in honor of Green’s aspiring rap group, Il Styles a Rhyme, which will perform live some Wednesdays. . . . Art imitating life, Green plays David Silver, an aspiring rap artist, on the popular Fox TV show.

GROUNDS BREAKING: Coffee drinkers weren’t left stranded when Alta Coffee House & Roasting Co., at Costa Mesa’s Triangle Square, shut down last weekend after a rent dispute. On Tuesday, Alta’s spot was filled by Pain du Monde, which operates three other storefronts in Newport Beach. Pain du Monde won’t tinker with the down-home design. And, it will continue to feature Alta’s coffee beans. An added bonus: Pain du Monde’s line of fat-free baked goods.