Chill, Weed-y Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day

Bake Something Together (Maybe While a Little Baked)

This isn’t about infused recipes (though that’s cool too)—it’s more about the vibe. Pick a cozy recipe, put on a record or a playlist you both like, and enjoy the process. Light up beforehand if that’s the move. Laugh about spilling flour everywhere. Eat cookies straight off the tray. That kind of thing.

Go Outside and Smoke a Little Something

A walk in the woods, your favorite neighborhood loop, or even just sitting in the backyard with a joint and some tea—being outside together with a little buzz can make everything feel more alive. The flowers look better. Time slows down. You might even talk about stuff you haven’t in a while.

At-Home Spa Vibes

Pick up a couple of sheet masks, run a bath with a CBD bomb, bring out the fancy lotion. Light a candle, pass the vape, and make a little ritual out of it. It doesn’t have to be complicated—just a moment to slow down and take care of yourselves.

Watch Something That Makes You Both Laugh

Go for a stoner comedy if that’s your thing, or something nostalgic from when you were growing up. Even a bad movie can be the perfect movie if the snacks are good and you’re both a little high.

Make Art or Get Crafty

Draw together. Paint rocks. Make matching beaded bracelets. It doesn’t matter if it turns out great—it’s about being in the moment and letting yourselves play. Weed can help turn off the perfectionism and make it easier to just mess around with materials.

April 2025: Cannabis News You Need to Know

California’s Cannabis Tax Hike Sparks Industry Concerns

Governor Gavin Newsom announced a 26% increase in the cannabis excise tax, raising it from 15% to 19%, effective July 1, 2025. This move aims to compensate for declining tax revenues but has drawn criticism from industry leaders who fear it will further disadvantage the legal market against unregulated competitors. Assemblymember Matt Haney has introduced legislation to halt the tax increase, which has passed a committee unanimously.

New York’s Cannabis Market Sees Price Drops Amid Expansion

New York’s legal cannabis industry is experiencing significant price reductions as the number of licensed dispensaries has grown from 41 at the end of 2023 to 368. Prices for concentrates and vapes have decreased by 15%, edibles by 14%, and flower by 5%. While consumers benefit from lower prices, the surge in dispensaries has led to a decline in average monthly sales per store. New York Post

Pennsylvania Lawmakers Renew Push for Cannabis Legalization

In Pennsylvania, a bipartisan effort is underway to legalize recreational cannabis. Representatives Emily Kinkead (D) and Abby Major (R) have introduced legislation aiming to privatize dispensaries to garner Republican support. Governor Josh Shapiro supports the initiative, highlighting potential annual tax revenues of $250 million. However, challenges remain, including opposition to provisions like cannabis-related criminal expungement.

Spring Clean Your Cannabis Routine: A Fresh Start for Your Stash and Space

Alright, it’s that time of year again—spring cleaning! As the snow melts and the days get longer, it’s the perfect time to refresh your home and your cannabis setup. Whether you’re a casual toker or a full-blown cannabis connoisseur, a good deep clean will do wonders for your vibe. So, grab your gloves, put on a playlist that slaps, and let’s tidy up.

Declutter Your Stash

Let’s be real—there’s probably a sad little nug sitting in the bottom of a baggie from who-knows-when. Time to check expiration dates on edibles and tinctures and inspect your flower for any signs of dryness or mold. If it looks sketchy, toss it. The good stuff? Treat it right and transfer it into airtight glass jars to keep it fresh.

Young man smoking pot using bong; detail of male hand filling up bong with cannabis, getting it ready for use

Deep Clean Your Gear

If your bong smells like a swamp, it’s time. Pipes, grinders, and vapes collect residue that messes with flavor and potency. Here’s how to bring them back to life:

  • Glass Pieces: Soak in isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt, then shake it like you mean it before rinsing with warm water.
  • Grinders: Give it a good brush-down to remove kief buildup, then soak the metal parts in alcohol. No more mystery crumbs!
  • Vaporizers: Follow those fancy manufacturer instructions—usually involves alcohol wipes and cotton swabs, not wishful thinking.
Inviting bohemian bedroom featuring vibrant tapestries, musical instruments, cozy seating, and eclectic decor creating an artistic and warm atmosphere

Refresh Your Smoking Space

That cozy little sesh spot? It’s probably a bit… lived-in. Time to dust, wash your ashtrays, and vacuum up any stray herb bits. If you’re an indoor smoker, let in some fresh air! A little spring breeze never hurt anyone. Throw in an air purifier or some lush houseplants for good measure.

Organize Your Accessories

Rolling papers, lighters, dab tools—where do they all go?! (Probably wherever your socks disappear to.) Take a moment to neatly store everything in a box or drawer. Future you will thank you when you don’t have to go on a scavenger hunt mid-session.

Preparing a joint and drug paraphernalia concept theme with close up man hands rolling a joint with herb girder to grind a cannabis buds in the background

Eliminate Odors Naturally

If your place smells like it just hosted a hotbox party from 2007, let’s fix that. Grab some baking soda, activated charcoal, or get fancy with a simmer pot of citrus and herbs. Spritz your furniture with a fabric refresher to keep things smelling fresh.

Ready medical THC CBD cannabis buds for smoking

Stock Up on Essentials

Once everything is clean and organized, do a little inventory check. Need fresh rolling papers? A new piece of glass? Maybe a new favorite edible? Get yourself stocked up so you’re always prepared for a perfect sesh.

Product Spotlight: Our Delicious & Infused Dark-Chocolate Covered Caramels

Satisfy your craving for adventure with Great Northern’s award winning Chocolate Covered Caramels. Infused with over 80mg total cannabinoids from THC and CBD, each petite box contains four servings of caramels coated in gourmet dark chocolate and sprinkled with flaked sea salt. These delectable treats are handcrafted with care in small batches with all-natural, gluten-free, and soy-free ingredients. These delectable caramels won Best Edible Candy in the 2021 Alaska Leaf Bowl.

February 2025: Cannabis News You Need to Know

Michigan’s Proposed Cannabis Tax Hike

Governor Whitmer is pushing to raise cannabis taxes to help fund Michigan’s road repairs, aiming to generate nearly half a billion dollars. While the plan could mean smoother highways, dispensary owners are worried it might push customers back to the unregulated market. With Detroit’s cannabis scene still growing, some fear this could do more harm than good.

Former Navy SEAL Enters the Cannabis Industry

Robert O’Neill, the Navy SEAL known for his role in the mission that killed Osama bin Laden, is stepping into the cannabis business. His new company, Operator Canna Co., is focused on helping veterans with PTSD, with a portion of proceeds supporting disabled vets. His products will be available in several New York City dispensaries, marking a unique crossover between military service and the cannabis industry.

Brazil Invests in Cannabis Research

Brazil’s leading agricultural research agency is planning a 12-year study on cannabis cultivation, pending government approval. The goal is to develop strains suited to the country’s climate and establish a national seed bank. With cannabis laws evolving in Brazil, this could be a major step toward expanding the country’s medicinal and industrial cannabis sectors.

Great Northern Cannabis Strain Spotlight: Marmalade Kush

Marmalade Kush (Mimosa x Cotton Candy Kush) is a tart Hybrid that bursts with notes of juicy citrus, sweet berry, and decadent honey while hinting at sunshine laden days – perfect for an afternoon of relaxation, creativity, and energy, The top terpenes found in Marmalade Kush are Limonene (Citrus, Mood Elevation), Caryophyllene (Pepper, Relief), A-Pinene (Earthy, Stimulating), and Myrcene (Sour, Relaxing).

Fur Rondy: The Ultimate Winter Festival in Anchorage, Alaska

Every winter, just when Alaskans start feeling a little too cooped up, Fur Rendezvous—better known as Fur Rondy—kicks off to remind everyone that winter is meant to be enjoyed, not just endured. What started in 1935 as a small gathering for fur trappers has grown into Alaska’s biggest winter festival, packed with uniquely Alaskan events that keep the cold months anything but boring.

Vern Johnson, the guy who started it all, wanted to give people a reason to come together and celebrate. Back then, it was all about dog sled races, a parade, and a fur auction. These days, you’ll still find those traditions alongside outhouse races, snowshoe softball, and the famous Running of the Reindeer—because why not add a little chaos to winter?

Fur Rondy is a reminder that no matter how long and dark the season gets, there’s always room for fun, community, and a little bit of weirdness. Whether you’re watching the sled dog races, checking out the ice sculptures, or just soaking in the festival vibes, it’s the perfect way to break up the winter and embrace the Alaskan spirit.

The Top Five Cannabis Terpenes and Their Effects

Cannabis isn’t just about THC and CBD—it’s a full-blown orchestra of compounds, each playing its part in your high. And the real MVPs? Terpenes. These aromatic little powerhouses don’t just make your bud smell delicious; they also help shape your experience. So, let’s break down the top five terpenes and what they bring to the party. Understanding terpenes is like knowing which spice to add to your dish—it can make or break your experience. Whether you need to chill, focus, or lift your spirits, there’s a terpene for that. So next time you’re strain shopping, don’t just rely on fancy names—check those terpene profiles and level up your cannabis game.

1. Myrcene

Aroma: Earthy, musky, with hints of cloves and fruit Effects: Relaxing, sedative, and anti-inflammatory

Meet Myrcene—the couch-lock culprit. If you’ve ever found yourself glued to your seat mid-movie, this terpene is likely to blame. Known for its ultra-relaxing effects, Myrcene is a staple in indica-heavy strains. Bonus: It’s also found in mangoes, hops, and lemongrass, so your next tropical smoothie might just have chill vibes written all over it.

2. Limonene

Aroma: Citrusy, lemon, and orange Effects: Uplifting, mood-boosting, and anti-anxiety

Limonene is basically sunshine in terpene form. If you’re in desperate need of a mood boost or just want to feel like a walking ray of light, this citrus-scented queen has got you covered. Found in sativa-dominant strains, limonene is also in citrus rinds, peppermint, and juniper—so yeah, your morning OJ is secretly out here doing the most.

3. Pinene

Aroma: Pine, fresh herbs, and woodsy Effects: Alertness, memory retention, and anti-inflammatory

Pinene is like the friend who actually remembers your birthday and keeps you on track. This fresh, piney terpene helps with focus and memory, making it a solid choice for daytime toking. Plus, it might even counteract some of THC’s spacey effects. Found in pine needles, rosemary, and basil, it’s basically the reason your Christmas tree smells amazing.

4. Caryophyllene

Aroma: Spicy, peppery, and woody Effects: Pain relief, stress reduction, and anti-inflammatory

Caryophyllene doesn’t just smell spicy—it is spicy. This little firecracker is the only terpene that doubles as a cannabinoid, meaning it directly interacts with your body’s CB2 receptors for serious anti-inflammatory action. Found in black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon, it’s basically the badass of the terpene world.

5. Linalool

Aroma: Floral, lavender, and slightly spicy Effects: Calming, anti-anxiety, and sleep-promoting

Linalool is the self-care guru of terpenes. You know that blissed-out feeling after a lavender-scented bath? That’s linalool at work. This floral wonder is all about relaxation, making it perfect for stress relief, anxiety reduction, and a good night’s sleep. Also found in coriander and rosewood, it’s the reason lavender-scented everything is such a hit.

January 2025 Cannabis News: Delays, Research, and Big Plans

January was a wild ride for cannabis news. From bureaucratic delays to groundbreaking research, here are three big updates you should know.

The DEA’s Cannabis Hearing? Yeah, It’s Delayed.

So, the DEA was supposed to hold a hearing on January 21 to discuss rescheduling cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III (aka, moving it out of the “as bad as heroin” category). But surprise! It got postponed because of an appeal from someone involved. Now, everyone’s left wondering when or if the government will finally make a move. Classic.

Cannabis for Dementia? Science Says, “Let’s Find Out.”

Over at the University of Kentucky, researchers kicked off a study on cannabis for late-stage dementia patients. The goal? See if it helps with agitation and discomfort—two big struggles for those with advanced dementia. The study, called the LiBBY Study, is backed by the National Institutes of Health and FDA-approved. If it works, cannabis could become a legit option for easing symptoms. Finally, science catching up with common sense.

The Feds Want a “Game Plan” for Cannabis Research

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) just dropped a new cannabis research roadmap, and it’s all about closing knowledge gaps. They want to figure out both the benefits and the risks (because, you know, balanced science and all that). This plan could shape future policies, regulations, and maybe even finally bring some clarity to the whole “is it medicine or not?” debate.

What our customers have to say…

Icons_left

“The staff is always knowledgeable and updated on the industry they always guide me in the right direction for the best deals, the customer service has never wavered for me in quality. Most definitely my first choice, best in Anchorage at the least!”

"The flower is consistently of high quality. Specifically, it's neatly trimmed, typically rich in terpenes, smokes well, and produces excellent highs. I've tried multiple strains from multiple growers, and there are several good ones out there. This brand is one of the good ones."

"Great flower selections and excellent service. The employees are very friendly an knowledgable, theres always a positive vibe at Great Northern Cannabis – my favorite dispensary hands down!"

"Thank you for hearing your customers on pricing and producing new strains! Excellent - Orange Ghost & Mimosa!! Staff have been top notch, professional, and great vibes - staff are engaging and seem to work together. Love the new Dimond location - easy access, great parking, and super convenient on my way home!"

"13/10 would recommend anyone to come to GNC. I've had a different person help me out each time I've gone in and they were always super nice. They always have the best strains, flower/pre-roll/oils, all of it is pretty great. And when they don't have your favorite in stock, they'll have the next best thing! For sure my go-to when I need more stuff."

Icons_right

Three Locations in Anchorage

Downtown • Dimond • Tudor