I don't remember what pack that came in (might be Get Together), but your sim can ask/talk about other sims (its under Friendly). Not in game right now, so can't check.
I've done this a few times. You talk to sim A about sim B. Sim A will then go talk to Sim B, and give you feedback on how that went. I've gotten something like "You were right, Sim B is awesome. Thanks!" I don't do this very often, because I'm a bit manic about sims properly introducing themselves, to learn the other sims traits.
I think there is also a way to hook Sim A up with Sim B (romantcally), like "you 2 would be perfect together, why don't you call them for a date, and see how it goes?" I believe you also get feedback on how that went.
I would very much like for my sims to share other news than pregnancy, but it seems the news is spread as it happens. Even with my reclusive gameplay, with my sims hardly ever leaving their homes, other sims instantly know what's going on. Although, I've gotten calls a few days after a promotion as well, so maybe the jungle drums don't work so well all the time.