I think the thread title is self-explanatory - adding timestamps to SB messages would help people tremendously in seeing whether the shoutbox is currently active or not, especially now that it isn't really particularly active.

Again! This has came up again! ^_^ We really need time stamps. Yes!

+2, I would also appreciate this.

definitely - would also love to see the return of the sidebar shoutbox

ah that's a shame, thanks for that info. I used to love using the sidebar shoutbox. Made the site feel alive - especially for those in europe like me that are 5 odd hours ahead of subeta time.