pound of formula WH with a compound of formula EH in an organic solvent in the presence of an acid to form a condensation product; [0112] wherein Z is halo (e.g., Br, Cl, I), alkoxy, or acetoxy; and then [0113] (b) oxidatively cyclizing said condensation product in an organic solvent in the presence of a base, an oxidant and a metal salt MXn, where X is an anion and n is 2-3, to produce a compound