Picture this | TranTech founder celebrates special 18-year anniversary

Eighteen years ago, TiTi McNeill founded TranTech Inc., a government information technology contractor that has grown into a $30 million-a-year operation. McNeill chose to celebrate the 18th anniversary because one plus eight equals nine, a lucky number in her native Vietnamese culture.

To mark the occasion, McNeill hosted a party for employees and other guests Dec. 14. Featured entertainment was Terry Fator, a ventriloquist, impressionist and singer, who won the NBC reality show "America's Got Talent."

"It's a wonderful way to salute the first 18 years," McNeill said, "and a great way to spring forward to the next 18 years and beyond."