Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Parenthetical) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Apr. 30, 2013	Apr. 30, 2012	Apr. 30, 2013	Apr. 30, 2012
Statement of Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Change in value of derivative instruments, tax	$ 156	$ 233	$ 387	$ 182
Additional minimum pension liability, tax	0	0	0	0
Unrealized (loss) gain on marketable securites, tax	$ 13	$ 10	$ 25	$ 29