Dynamic shape colors w/ PHP MapScript

[MapServer User]

All:

I'm currently using PHP MapScript w/ MapServer 4.2.5.  I have several shape
files I use to display data.  What I'm looking for is a snippet to
dynamically
color each state or county a different color.  I also have verious points
that
I would like to color, based on the state.

Is there is any code snippet anyone could share that would enable me to
do this?  I would appreciate any guidance on the matter.  I think I've found
every way NOT to do it. : )

Thanks.

Joel