Don't solder it - the element may get warm enough to melt the solder or certainly fatigue it and cause it to crack. You can't even think about using a torch on it, the plastic in the element will burn.
I'd give spot welding a try. The "storebought" ones look like this...
Well HEY! (and I mean HEY, not HI)
I'm just north of you a few miles. Just kegged major buttloads of a stout to get me through the summer, when all the juveniles and heretics think stout isn't meant to be consumed. My kegs form big giant middle fingers pointed directly at commercial craft...
Unicorn Found:
http://www.webstaurantstore.com/gray-iceberg-500-60-qt-insulated-portable-beverage-cooler-merchandiser-with-lid-drain-and-semicircular-design/465IRP500GY.html
Yesh, I know it's an old, old thread. Waatevva.