Fair Value Measurements of Other Financial Instruments (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Oct. 31, 2011
Fair Value Measurements Of Other Financial Instruments Disclosure Table [Abstract]  
Summary of the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of other financial instruments
   2011 2010
 (in thousands) Carrying Value Fair Value Carrying Value Fair Value
 Other investments$ 7,470$ 7,470$ 7,470$ 7,470
 Notes receivable from stock option        
  exercises$ 4,441$ 4,441$ 3,158$ 3,158
 Debt$ 500,000$ 566,047$ 500,000$ 590,692