Popcorn Balls

1 1/2 c Brown sugar firmly packed
1/2 c Corn syrup
2 tb Water
1/4 c Vinegar
1/4 ts -salt
2 tb Butter
1 ts Vanilla
8 c Popcorn;freshly popped

Mix the first six ingredients together in a large heavy saucepan. Stir over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil. Then cook, without stirring, until the mixture reaches the hard ball stage, 260 degrees F. Remove from the heat and add the vanilla. Pour immediately over the popcorn and mix quickly, making sure to coat all of the kernels. Wet your hands with cold water and press a small quantity of coated popcorn into a firm ball. Place on wax paper to cool. Yields 10 2" balls.