Vertical Progress Bar

I’m trying to create a vertical progress bar in flash that draws the data from a PHP script. I’ve got my PHP and MySQL done, but I’m not sure how to handle the variables in flash or how to setup the script on my page to change the image.

Additionally, I’m attempting to make it so there’s an overlay bleep graphic showing the perception of movement. How is this accomplished with limited variables outside of the base script?

I’m a complete noob when it comes to flash, this is the first thing I’ll have ever made besides a moving Adobe box… so please be as specific as you can. I figured this would be a good starting point. I’m using CS5.5 if that makes a difference.

E: Apologies if I’ve erroneously posted in this section. Being a complete Flash noob, I do not understand all of the sections just yet.