I'm pretty sure this isn't in the memories.
-I just have PS elements.

Anyways, is it even possible with my program to do this:

If I make a text layer linear dodge, and add any layers styles (like bevels).. and try to merge it with any other layers, the layer styles disappear! Unless i just flatten image. Is there some way to merge layers without that happening?

..or do i make sense, lol.. thanks for any help though.