It was in fact added just around a week ago tops, so I'm happy to tell you aren't blind.
The main reason why the text is there is because members/new members of this community that hasn't even played the game yet ask for help there since it's pretty much the first thing you see. It can be anything from how to get the game, how to fix graphic errors, how to make maps or presets etc. All sorts of things.
The shoutbox part of the forum is something that's rather difficult to moderate 24/7, doesn't really matter who's on. Not even the regulars of the site check there all too often. I have tried to check up on that place fairly often, and even if I just go there to aid someone, or when I start the web browser, I always see people in need of help, And 8 out of 10 cases, they never get any.
This is why the big text has been added next to the shoutbox so people "should" see where to go with their problems regarding the game. The main reason isn't really because people can spam easy and almost obvious questions for some of us, it's actually so we will be able to see that they need help and they will get replies regarding whatever issue they might be having by re-directing them to the help part of the forum.
Even if mods aren't around, some in the community here gladly answers some help threads every now and then.
The shoutbox is more like a problembox. xd