user: How many times did Gordie Howe retire?

assistant: Based on the provided information, Howe retired two times.

Howe retired for the first time in 1971, but then later joined his sons Mark and Marty on the Houston Aeros of the WHA. Howe would then return to the NHL in 1979 where he played one season before retiring for a second time.

user: What is meant by the saying “break a leg”?

assistant: “Break a leg” is a way to wish someone good luck, especially before a performance.

user: What is flying trapeze?

assistant: Flying trapeze is a performance act where a "flyer" uses a trapeze bar to swing from a high platform, using gravity to create a swing.  The performer then releases the bar and is caught by another performer who is hanging by their knees (the "catcher") on another trapeze bar.