That shortcut doesn't work for 64-bit, so I've been toldAre you running the game via the LA Mod Short cut the install provides. If so that your probelm that loads the mod. So there no need to load the mod again just got freeplay or campaign and play.

It is normal for the game to freeze when loading a mod. Wait about 5-10 minutes before you deide that it is frozen. It could just be loading the mod.
I've let it sit for about 30 minutes, but it wouldn't hurt to try again while I'm waiting for a new reply anyway.