Note 11 - Other Income (Expense) And Gain (Loss) On Early Extinguishment Of Debt (Detail) - Other Income And Expense (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2012	Oct. 31, 2011	Oct. 31, 2010
Interest income	$ 575	$ 635	$ 577
Interest expense	(1,519)	(2,636)	(4,015)
Other, net	(115)	(997)	282
Total other income (expense)	(1,059)	(2,998)	(3,156)
Loss on early extinguishment of debt			$ (1,123)