Abstract: A ceiling mounted unit is provided to wind and unwind lines which suspend an overhead sign. The lines are connected to a shaft in the ceiling unit which is rotated by a motor, raising and lowering the sign suspended by the lines. A brake is provided to prevent the sign from unintentionally lowering under its own weight. The unit is controlled and powered by a portable elongate control device operable by a person on the floor to raise and lower signs by engaging the ceiling unit with the control device. Guide members radially extend from the ceiling unit to facilitate engagement by the control device.