Cattitude .... Yes, I have heard that CT gives good service as you have experienced.
When I need black batting, I have purchased it at Len's.
No idea how the price compares to yours though, as I can't remember what I paid.
Cat and also GingerK ... Last year when doing RxR, I discovered 505 and Best Pressed were hugely lower in price at E+E's in Newton. At the time I thought I was a bit nuts, so I did not buy. Once I double checked, I went back and stockpiled. I think it was the same for Retayne. Best to call ahead to make sure they have it before you go!