Rappers Snoop Dogg, Jim Jones and Doug E. Fresh, and singer Ciara are among those being honored this year at the fifth annual Action Awards, sponsored by The Hip Hop Summit Action Network (HSAN). The entertainers are being recognized for their community contributions: Snoop for his Snoop Youth Football League, Jones for support of NYC schools, Doug E. Fresh for serving as a co-moderator at HSAN financial literacy summits, and Ciara for her work with The VH1 Save the Music Foundation. Also being honored are Chris Lighty, CEO of Violator Management and financial whiz Melody Hobson, president of Capital Management. “HSAN holds the Action Awards to celebrate the importance of people taking action to give back to our communities,” Russell Simmons, chairman of HSAN, said via a statement released to SOHH.com. “Snoop, Ciara, Doug E., Chris, Jim, and Melody represent the best of hip-hop and all have uniquely and effectively given back their time, money and energy to help improve the quality of life of all people." The ceremony takes place Feb. 25 as a fundraising dinner in NYC.

Jay-Z and Cleveland Cavalier Lebron James are hosting their second annual Two Kings Dinner at NBA All Star Weekend 2008. This year, the guestlist-only celebration is in New Orleans on Saturday (Feb. 17). Those not invited to the dinner can still get it on at the Two Kings Afterparty, according to XXLmag.com. DJ Clark Kent and Mick Boogie will be supplying the music.

In an effort to balance the offerings in New Orleans this weekend, the First Annual TOMI Film Festival begins today, showcasing film from the underground film community. Films being shown include the documentaries “From the Mouth Piece on Back” executive produced by The Roots and narrated by actress Kerry Washington and “Got Purpose?” featuring Common. For more information, visit www.tomifilmfestival.org.

Singer John Legend will be making his big screen debut alongside soul legend Isaac Hayes and Hollywood legends Samuel L. Jackson and Bernie Mac, according to The Hollywood Reporter. In the film, “Soul Men,” Jackson and Mac play estranged former bandmates who fight their way across the country after agreeing to perform a reunion concert at the Apollo Theatre in tribute to their deceased band member, played by Legend. Sean Hayes of "Will and Grace" fame plays the band’s manager. “Soul Men” is being directed by “Welcome Home Roscoe” director, Malcolm D. Lee and is expected in theaters Oct. 10.

Legend is also taking part in the OurStage “Artist Access” program which connects young talents to veterans like the Grammy winner. According to MTV.com, he will spend an afternoon writing material with Boston hip-hop duo Trouble City. OurStage is a digital music company that allows fans to determine which artists get the most attention. For more information, visit www.OurStage.com.