Note 12 - 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, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
Shares of Common Stock Outstanding [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of year (September 1)	43,324,410	44,279,000	45,055,000
Common stock issued for employee stock plans	959,000	2,459,000	825,000
Stock issued for acquisition of business (in Dollars)			$ 43
Repurchase of common stock	(2,490,000)	(3,414,000)	(1,644,000)
Balance, end of year (August 31)	41,792,802	43,324,410	44,279,000