A week after pitching Major League Baseball's 18th perfect game, and just a few days after breaking teammate Bobby Jenks's record for most consecutive batters retired -- 45 -- Mark Buehrle was honored Thursday with his own day.

In advance of the White Sox game against the New York Yankees, Gov. Pat Quinn joined the All-Star lefty at U.S. Cellular Field to proclaim July 30, 2009 as Mark Buehrle Day in Illinois.

The celebration will continue next week, when the Chicago White Sox play the "Buehrle Appreciation Series" against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

The "Buehrle Appreciation Series" will feature a special ceremony prior to the Aug. 4 game, and all games will have "perfect game" and "MLB Record-Setting" giveaways for fans in attendance. 

A Sox fan, Quinn has already ideas for Buehrle's post-baseball career when that time comes.

Quinn said Buehrle should consider running for a spot in the Illinois Legislature because he's the kind of modest, hardworking, team player the state needs.

We're wondering how to celebrate this momentous occasion. Use the comments section below to suggest ways to celebrate Mark Buehrle day.