Note 3 - Investments in Associated Companies - Summarized Financial Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 24, 2017
Equity in earnings	$ 7,121	$ 9,249	$ 7,609
TNI Partners [Member]
Current assets	3,484	3,615
Investments and other assets	1,350
Total assets	4,834	3,615
Current liabilities	5,924	5,213
Members' equity	(1,090)	(1,598)
Total liabilities and members' equity	4,834	3,615
Operating revenue	43,532	47,165	48,297
Operating expenses	34,224	37,090	38,150
Net income	9,308	10,075	10,147
Company's 50% share	4,654	5,038	5,073
Less amortization of intangible assets	418	418	418
Equity in earnings	4,236	4,620	4,655
MNI [Member]
Current assets	8,796	10,173
Investments and other assets	31,134	33,295
Total assets	39,930	43,468
Current liabilities	5,912	7,274
Members' equity	27,954	28,933
Total liabilities and members' equity	39,930	43,468
Operating revenue	56,790	59,670	61,396
Operating expenses	48,121	49,598	51,392
Net income	5,770	9,257	5,908
Equity in earnings	2,885	4,629	2,954
Other liabilities	6,064	7,261
Restructuring costs	355	383	296
Depreciation and amortization	1,018	1,149	1,295
Operating income	$ 7,296	$ 8,540	$ 8,413