For those who may be interested, here is a screen grab from Fotki.com, a photo storing/selling service. They offer assistance in recovering your photos from Photobucket. I have used them for 2 years with no issues. I signed up for for storing 300GB of photos for 5 years for a total of $185.00 US. It isn't free, but it works with no gimmicks.
I have no commercial or emotional interest in Foiki -- I'd just love to see all the old pics restored to their proper articles!!!
I don't care whether you use this or not -- JUST RESTORE YOUR PHOTOS!
Ed