perhaps something like this Brian?
There 4 x 2 x 1's made of white melamine heated with heat tape.
i prefer the melamine as you dont have to worry about water proofing anything like most other wood enclosures its only downside is its weight (but i dont find it a problem)
You could either use heat pads or heat tape, your choice.
I prefer heat tape or UTH's as i feel they're alot more reliable then lamps. ive had way to many lamps blow on me and spark flames.
living in new york shouldn't be a problem as it gets just as cold here in Toronto.
Grant vg