In the 1960s, Chester, Inc. founders and partners Charlie Bowman and Orville Redenbacher developed and produced hybrid popcorn seed under the name Red Bow Popcorn, with Red representing Redenbacher and Bow representing Bowman. As one of the largest wholesale popcorn distributors in the Midwest, Red Bow Popcorn soon became popular and was known for its excellent quality and high popping volume. Believing the product could succeed nationwide in the retail market, Bowman argued that it needed stronger brand recognition, and they chose Orville's name and likeness to represent it. The name Orville Redenbacher became synonymous with popcorn throughout the world, and both men were always proud to call Valparaiso their hometown for family and business.