Note 2 - Property, Plant and Equipment (Details) - Properties (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 27, 2013	Apr. 28, 2012
Properties [Abstract]
Land	$ 9,779	$ 9,779
Buildings and improvements	49,391	48,363
Machinery and equipment	141,314	136,019
Total	200,484	194,161
Less accumulated depreciation	(143,177)	(137,432)
Property, plant and equipment – net	$ 57,307	$ 56,729

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Amount of accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization for physical assets used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services.

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Amount before accumulated depreciation of building structures held for productive use including addition, improvement, or renovation to the structure, including, but not limited to, interior masonry, interior flooring, electrical, and plumbing.

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Amount before accumulated depletion of real estate held for productive use, excluding land held for sale.

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Amount before accumulated depreciation of tangible personal property used to produce goods and services, including, but is not limited to, tools, dies and molds, computer and office equipment.

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Amount before accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization of physical assets used in the normal conduct of business and not intended for resale. Examples include, but are not limited to, land, buildings, machinery and equipment, office equipment, and furniture and fixtures.

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Amount after accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization of physical assets used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services and not intended for resale. Examples include, but are not limited to, land, buildings, machinery and equipment, office equipment, and furniture and fixtures.

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