While the "Kropog" is fictional, the story is based on a MIT fraternity prank. In 1958, MIT student Oliver R. Smoot lay down repeatedly on the Harvard Bridge and his frat brothers marked the bridge in "Smoots." The bridge still has the markings.
The story behind the Kropog unit, along with the person Maxwell T. Kropog, are completely fictional.
When Emily mistakenly assumes that Lorelei's usual drink is a Sidecar, Lorelei replies that she isn't even sure what's in a sidecar. For the record, the Sidecar is a classic sour cocktail made with cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice, often served in a glass with a sugared rim.