The Transportation Security Administration spent nearly $500,000 on an awards ceremony at a swank hotel, including $81,000 for plaques and $500 for cheese displays, according to The Associated Press.

Awards were presented to 543 TSA employees and 30 organizations, including a "lifetime achievement award" for one worker with the 2-year-old agency.

The banquet, which cost $461,745, was held at the Grand Hyatt, which bills itself as "one of the most magnificent" hotels in the nation's capital. According to the report, the agency chose that site because it was the only hotel available on Nov. 19, 2003, the agency's second anniversary. It also was one of the few places that could accommodate about 600 honorees and as many guests.

TSA spokeswoman Amy von Walter said the agency believes the bonuses and party were justified "given the hours and productivity of the work force during this critical period."

Next time, von Walter said, the TSA will conduct awards ceremonies at individual airports, as well as a much smaller and less expensive event at its headquarters in November.