the buzz log

Warm up the metal scoopers. July is doubly delightful thanks to National Ice Cream Month and National Ice Cream Day on July 15. President Ronald Reagan thought the sweet occasion needed the double scoop of emphasis.

Rising dairy prices haven't deterred the buzz on the frozen confection. As for the flavas of love, the International Dairy Foods Association dishes up vanilla, chocolate, neapolitan, strawberry and cookies 'n' cream as the top five.

Searchers crave vanilla, scooping up that flavor at double the rate of chocolate. The cream of the Search crop also includes fresh fruits, rich flavors, and exotic tastes: Since last summer, old-school fruit like pineapple and apple have moved up in our estimation, as have butter pecan and peanut butter. Some regional tastes are acquired, but infusions from other cultures have made coconut, green tea, and ginger must-haves in the parlors.

Other ins and outs since we checked last summer:

• Out: Pumpkin. In: Cinnamon.
• Out: Mint chocolate chip. In: Mint.
• Out: Orange Crush. Yes, Orange Crush. In: Oreo.

Craving more? Satiate yourself with the 25 most-searched flavors this summer.