Reconciliation of Numerator and Denominator of the basic and diluted earnings per share computation (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended				6 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Apr. 30, 2014	Jan. 31, 2014	Apr. 30, 2013	Jan. 31, 2013	Apr. 30, 2014	Apr. 30, 2013	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Equity [Abstract]
Net income	$ 8,129		$ 7,249		$ 13,068	$ 9,832
Basic weighted average shares	17,081		16,998		17,063	16,993
Effect of dilutive securities:
Stock options		77		45			85	48
Diluted weighted average shares	17,158	17,158	17,043	17,043	17,148	17,041	17,148	17,041
Basic earnings per share	$ 0.48		$ 0.43		$ 0.77	$ 0.58
Diluted earnings per share	$ 0.47		$ 0.43		$ 0.76	$ 0.58
Comprehensive income	7,871		7,249		12,403	9,832
Adjustment to estimated deferred taxes associated with pension adjustments included in accumulated other comprehensive income	(144)		0		105	0
Unrealized gain on marketable securities	67		0		67	0
Change in fair value of derivative instruments, net of tax	$ (561)		$ 0		$ (561)	$ 0