Note 11 - Common Stock and Earnings Per Share (Details) - Shares of Common Stock Outstanding (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011
Shares of Common Stock Outstanding [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of year (September 1)	44,279,214	45,055,000	46,024,000
Common stock issued for employee stock plans	2,459,000	825,000	1,283,000
Stock issued for acquisition of business (in Dollars)		$ 43
Repurchase of common stock	(3,414,000)	(1,644,000)	(2,252,000)
Balance, end of year (August 31)	43,324,410	44,279,214	45,055,000