Hicks closes in on 200. (Tom Hicks will control nearly 200 radio stations after latest Capstar Broadcasting Partners acquisition)

Latest move is purchase of 32 Benchmark outlets

Tom Hicks seems intent on taking over the country's radio stations. Last week, the chairman of Hicks, Muse, Tate & Furst Inc. (and ultimate owner of Capstar Broadcasting Partners) said Capstar is buying 32 midsize radio stations from Benchmark Communications for about $173 million (see "Changing Hands," page 42).

Including Hicks's involvement in various other companies, the broadcaster controls-- r will control--196 1/2 radio stations, according to BROADCASTING & CABLE'S count. (The 1/2 is 50% interest in a Florida FM.)

"We will continue to actively pursue our buy-and-build strategy to create value in …